Fiat Scudo may be just what you need

With the 2010 Soccer World Cup just around the corner, many entrepreneurs will be using the event to generate more income.

If ferrying fans from hotels to stadiums or airports appeals to you, the new Fiat Scudo might just be what you are looking for.

Billed as the "all-purpose people carrier"; the Fiat Scudo was last year, named Europe's Van of the Year, for local purposes it will come in either the 8- or 9-seater version.

The front conveys an impression of sturdiness and solidity, which is highlighted by the wraparound bumper. The front light clusters, which include the indicators, have clear lenses and an elongated shape that makes the vehicle more dynamic.

The rear end has square lines that immediately tell you that this vehicle is capacious and easy to load.

Inside the new Scudo styling embodies practicality. The facia has a two-tone treatment that enhances the styling and good looks more typical of a saloon than a working vehicle.

Of course, the Scudo's whole raison d'etre is its ability to haul human cargo. Upfront there are two individual seats but a two-seat bench for passengers is available as an option. In the rear there are two rows each with three seats.

Comfort features abound, including electric front windows, a stereo system with steering controls, remote central locking, air conditioning with separate controls for the front and rear, heated and electrically adjustable side mirrors, power steering and electronic headlamp adjustment.

On safety its dual front airbags are standard as is ABS with EBD.

Engine-wise the 2.0-litre Multijet delivers a maximum of 88kW at 3600rpm and peak torque of 300Nm at 2000 rpm.

The Fiat Scudo has 30 000km service intervals and enjoys full after-sales support. The recommended retail price is R363 100.